GQ&A: Cristiano Ronaldo

When GQ met the 2014 World Player of the Year

Portugal have not had a decent World Cup by any stretch of the imagination. A 4-0 drubbing by Germany followed by a tepid performance where they scraped a draw against the US puts them on the verge of elimination. But they’re not out yet. Sure, they’ll need to beat a resilient Ghana side by a huge margin if they’re to qualify, but this World Cup is full of surprises and this may just be another one waiting to happen. If there’s anyone who can single-handedly change the course of a game, it’s Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal’s qualifying game against Sweden is evidence). We were fortunate enough to talk to the 2014 World Player of the Year earlier this month. Here’s what he had to say about his year, the Portugal team and that Euro 2004 final.

You’ve had a tremendous 2013-14 campaign, how are you feeling?
Ballon D’or, Copa del Rey, La Decima (Champions League) and Golden Boot! It was an amazing season. The team deserved it. The pressure for winning trophies has always been present since I joined the club – the historic La Decima in particular – and we made it. It was fantastic!

Traditionally, Portugal was a team that played possession-based football because they played around a midfielder. Now the team plays a counter attacking game best suited for players like you and Nani. Do you feel under pressure to see your team so dependent on you, or do you relish it?
There’s no point talking about how the team was built before and how they did things in the past. Portugal is only one squad and not team A, B, or C. We can only succeed if provided with such a spirit. Pressure will always be there and it makes me give the best of myself. So you could say that I relish it, but you can’t take anything away from the team.

As a sports personality, what is your connect with TAG and what’s your favourite TAG watch?
I need to feel close to the brand’s values, like with TAG Heuer. TAG Heuer and I, we really share the same values. They are a brand that keeps on reinventing itself, keeps on innovating, keeps on fighting for their position. They never take things for granted and keep challenging their craft. I that sense, we are really alike. No matter how much I am down, I will always keep on fighting, and look for ways to reach my goals. My favorite TAG is the new Carrera 1887 chronograph. It’s at once chic, casual and sporty.

This World Cup is your sixth major tournament. Your first was in your own country. How do you remember the experience of Euro 2004?
Euro 2004 was impressive for the great atmosphere felt in Portugal, and we only regret the title lost, which is something I still dream of. It was my first competition and will never forget the support from the Portuguese people the entire tournament and the image of thousands, on that day of the final, following our bus on foot, by boat, by car or motorcycle or even bike. Unforgettable! It’s a shame we did not beat Greece.